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Venezuela braced for violence after opposition leader declares himself Acting President

Venezuela braced for violence after opposition leader declares himself Acting President

Chika Mori and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

People in Venezuela are bracing themselves for fresh political violence that may ultimately reach a new level. Indeed, with President Donald Trump of America supporting the leading opposition leader Juan Guaidó, then the international dimension threatens to inflame tensions even more. Hence, President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela understands that a real threat to his power concentration is underway.

He continued, “I swear to formally assume the national executive powers as acting president.”

Reuters reports, “The 35-year-old Guaido has energized the opposition with a campaign to declare Maduro a usurper after elections last year widely regarded as fraudulent, and has promised a transition to a new government in a nation suffering a hyperinflationary economic collapse.”

The government of Maduro is evidence that the socialist paradise is unattainable under the current leader of Venezuela. This relates to medicine shortages; hyperinflation; vast numbers fleeing to neighboring nations; a feeling of helplessness for many Venezuelans; and foodstuffs are hindered by the deteriorating economy.

Of course, Maduro seemed to be on the abyss before based on mass demonstrations and political opposition figures calling for him to step down. Yet, with Trump sensing that political change is in the air in Venezuela – and some neighboring nations condemning his leadership – then clearly the tap is being turned to a higher degree.

The BBC reports, “US President Donald Trump has said he recognises Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó as interim president.”

Trump said, “The people of Venezuela have courageously spoken out against Maduro and his regime and demanded freedom and the rule of law.”

Trump continued, “I will continue to use the full weight of United States economic and diplomatic power to press for the restoration of Venezuelan democracy.”

Alarmingly for Maduro, Trump stipulated strongly that the regime of Maduro would he held “directly responsible” for any violence and threats to the people of Venezuela. Hence, it seems that America is fully behind Guaidó and this will embolden the opposition to Maduro. Therefore, people in Venezuela – on both sides of the political fence – sense that the stakes are extremely high internally and externally.